SunRISE: Software Tool for Predicting the Performance of a PV Plant at Research Infrastructures

The open-access tool that brings together energy yield, cost, and carbon impact for smarter solar planning.

A bar graph with in two colors and a writing on top
A screenshot from the SunRISE tool analysis estimating annual solar energy production in cloudy sky
A line graph in purple, blue and yellow colors with a writing on top
A screenshot of the SunRISE tool analysis for estimated production comparison in clear vs cloudy weather
What it is

A practical software tool that helps research infrastructures and other large sites estimate the performance of a photovoltaic (PV) installation for a specific location.

What it does

The tool predicts solar energy generation based on site conditions, local topology, and installation design. It also provides financial and environmental indicators to support decision-making.

Key outputs
  • Monthly and annual energy production estimates
  • Recommended installation configuration
  • Comparison between suggested and optimal setup
  • Total cost estimate
  • Payback time, return on investment, and LCOE
  • Annual carbon savings and emissions
  • Carbon payback time
Why it matters

Many research infrastructures want to expand renewable energy use but need reliable and site-specific information before investing. This tool makes that first step easier by combining technical, financial, and environmental assessment in one place.

Who can use it
  • RI engineers and technicians
  • Facility planners and energy managers
  • Researchers with basic Python or Jupyter skills
  • Operators of other geographically extended sites such as business parks or industrial estates
Format

Jupyter notebook with user guidance. To access, click on the link.

Why this is useful

It lowers the barrier to evaluating solar potential and helps users move from interest to evidence-based planning. If your site is considering solar energy, use this tool to test options early and identify the most promising configuration before investing.

Contact

The product owner for this tool is Diego Herrera Ruiz, Renewable Energy Research Engineer at European Spallation Source ERIC and FlexRICAN WP3.

Contact Diego